Women's soccer fights UNH to 0-0 draw

SMITHFIELD, R.I. - In its first game at Bulldog Stadium in three weeks, the Bryant University women's soccer team battled hard, but could not find the back of the net, settling instead for a scoreless draw against the University of New Hampshire on Sunday afternoon.

Ten different players reeled off shots for the Bulldogs (3-3-2), but could not break through against the Wildcats (1-6-1).   Kelsi Jacob (Mahwah, N.J.) turned away seven shots, and the Bryant defense came up with a huge team save late in regulation to eventually send the game into overtime.  

Both teams attempted four shots apiece over the span of two overtime periods, with the Bulldogs reeling three out in the first extra frame, but the Wildcats came back with three of their own in the final extra stanza.  Jacob made two saves late in the game to earn her second shutout of the season, while UNH goaltender Erica Correa finished with seven saves as well.

In total, Bryant outshot UNH by a 20-19 margin, and held a 10-2 lead in corner kicks.  The Bulldogs also were penalized 14 times compared to 11 fouls for the Wildcats.

Both teams attempted to play a fast-paced game, but solid defensive efforts led to a low amount of quality scoring chances.  The Bulldogs' best opportunity came in the first half, when Alex Bengston (Andover, Mass.) sent a free kick just outside the box toward Correa, who could not control it cleanly.  With the ball loose inside the penalty box, two Bulldogs attempted stuff the rebound home, but both shots were blocked by defenders.  Bengston finished the game with three shots attempted, which was tied for the team-lead with sophomore Ari Goldberg (East Bridgewater, Mass.).

With less than 10 minutes remaining in regulation, the Wildcats came away with their best scoring chance of the game in the 83rd minute.  Kelsi O'Neill took a pass from a teammate and maneuvered through the defense took a shot at the top of the box.  The ball, destined for the back of the net near the right post, was kicked away at the last second by senior defender Mary Green (Merrick, N.Y.).

In overtime, Bryant out-fouled the Wildcats by a 5-3 margin, but had a chance in the 109th minute with a set piece just outside of the box.  The UNH defense stepped up, blocking a shot by Bengston to quell Bryant's final scoring chance of the game.  With 30 seconds left, Taylor Pinley took a shot after a set piece that Jacob denied.  Before the Bulldogs could counter, they were greeted by the final whistle signifying the end of the contest after 110 minutes.

The Black and Gold will return to action on Friday, Sept. 23, in the second game of a four-game homestand.  Bryant will kick off conference play against Northeast Conference foe Wagner as part of Alumni Weekend on Sutton Field.  Game time is set for 3:30 p.m.

For continuing coverage of Bryant women's soccer, check back at www.bryantbulldogs.com, and follow the Bulldogs on Twitter @BryantAthletics.